H. R. 19 -- "Declaring February 12, 1998, to be Domestic
Violence Prevention Day in West Virginia."
Whereas, All people have a right to be safe in their homes and
with their families; and
Whereas, Domestic violence is a major health and law-
enforcement problem in our State with enormous costs in both
dollars and human lives; and
Whereas, Children suffer both as victims of physical assault or
by witnessing violence in their homes, which can cause deep and
lasting emotional harm, especially if the violence results in the
death of a parent or other household member; and
Whereas, Recent crime statistics reveal that one third of West
Virginia's homicides are domestic violence related; and
Whereas, Filings for domestic violence protection orders have
dramatically increased in our courts; and
Whereas, Domestic violence affects people of both sexes, all
races and ethnic backgrounds and all socioeconomic classes; and
Whereas, Domestic or family violence can be deterred, prevented or reduced by legal intervention that treats this problem with the
seriousness that it deserves; therefore, be itResolved by the House of Delegates:
That the West Virginia House of Delegates declares February
12, 1998, to be Domestic Violence Prevention Day in West Virginia
and commits itself to treating this problem with the seriousness
that it deserves and working to achieving legal solutions that
deter, prevent and reduce domestic violence.